Kirsten & John
Things To Do
Old Town
Fun (if a bit kitschy and crowded) part of town with delicious Mexican food and historical exhibits. If planning to arrive at dinner time, we recommend Uber or Lyft. We love the swordfish tacos and (free!) queso at Miguel's Cocina and the grande margaritas and homemade tortillas at Cafe Coyote.
Little Italy
This is the culinary heart of downtown with more than just Italian food. Due to COVID, many restaurants have expanded their outdoor seating, which makes it a bit tough to park (we recommend Uber or Lyft). Try the Focaccia di Recco at Davanti Enoteca (bride’s orders), the Ramen at Underbelly, pizza at Isola Pizza Bar, seafood at Ironside Fish & Oyster, homemade pasta at Monello, fried chicken at Crack Shack, or if you're in the mood for dessert, you can try Salt & Straw (worth the wait) or check out Bobboi gelateria. If you're at the intersection of India and Cedar, look up and see if you can spot Kirsten and John's balcony (it's the one with the twinkly lights!).
Gaslamp District
Rising from 16 square-blocks in downtown San Diego, you’ll find the historic Gaslamp Quarter where Victorian-era buildings and modern skyscrapers stand side-by-side, housing more than 100 of the city's best restaurants, pubs, nightclubs, and shops. We like Rustic Root, Fig Tree Cafe, Breakfast Republic, and the Cat Cafe.
San Diego Zoo
Arguably the finest zoo in the U.S. with a huge array of exhibits. Visit 100-year-old Galapagos tortoises, enormous California condors, and the largest Koala colony outside of Australia!
La Jolla
World-class surfing destination with an absolutely breathtaking coastline. Explore the eucalyptus trees that inspired Dr. Seuss and watch a herd of lazy sea lions lounge about in the sun!
SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld San Diego is home to world-class animal shows, presentations, and exhibits, spread out on beautiful Mission Bay Park. Experience marine life, thrill rides, aquariums, and up-close encounters with dolphins, penguins, and more!
Embarcadero
Make your way past a collection of beautiful ships, including an old Soviet submarine, the clipper ship Star of India, and the famous aircraft carrier U.S.S. Midway. You'll get beautiful views of the ocean and downtown as you go and end up in Seaport Village, with a charming collection of shops and restaurants. If you missed Miguel's in Old Town, not to worry - you can find one right on the pier!
Balboa Park
Sprawling, beautiful park that includes a variety of museums and restaurants, a replica of Shakespeare's Globe Theater, and some of the best people-watching in San Diego. John recommends the Air and Space Museum, where he can spend hours happily geeking out over the Apollo 9 command module.